Portland, Maine

The Old Port area is a fun place to browse clothing boutiques and specialty shops. If you're looking for classic Portland souvenirs, seek out anything that celebrates Maine's lobsters, lighthouses or maritime industry. Porte 4 sells fine jewelry with nautical designs such as 18K gold sailboat and lighthouse pendants. For unusual and historical nautical artifacts, check out China Sea Marine Trading Company.

Another unique souvenir is Sea Bags' handmade water-resistant tote bag made in Maine from recycled sails. The company's headquarters is located on Portland's working waterfront at 25 Custom House Wharf.

Stepping in to fill the void left by the Portland Public Market, which folded in 2006, the Public Market House is the spot to indulge in local gourmet foods, fresh-baked bread and Maine-made beer.

Shopping die-hards won't want to miss a trip to nearby Freeport. The well-known outlet shopping destination includes the L.L. Bean flagship store, which is open 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Aside from merchandise, the store also has a 24-foot riverbed aquarium alive with fish and turtles native to Maine.

Looking for antiques? Check MaineAntiques.org for listings of dealers in and around Portland.